Lancaster PA Real Estate Blog - Lancaster PA Realtor

Good Article Today on the "Greening" of Lancaster...

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:18:46 -0500

Lancaster newspapers featured a front-page article today by Ad Crable on the "greening" of Lancaster City. The article was quite lengthy and offered some of the best press coverage to date of several excellent local initiiatives:

Lancaster Buy Fresh Buy Local

L.I.V.E. Lancaster

Susquehanna Sustainable Business Network

And more...

Here's a link to full article for you to check out...well worth reading.

Lancaster City PA Apartments - Two Great Rental Opportunities!

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:33:39 -0500

If you're interested in Lancaster City living and want to rent within walking distance of most of downtown, including Binns Park, Lancaster Central Market, The Fulton Opera House, Lancaster General Hospital, The Belvedere, Building Character, Rachel's Creperie, the Lancaster County Courthouse, Musser Park, The Museum of Art and much more, then be sure to check out these great apartments on the 300 block of north Lime Street!

Here are some details:

The rent for the 1st floor is $650 - 2Br, 1 Ba. Covered front porch on Lime Street.

For the 3rd floor - $750 2 Br, 1 Ba, central air, cherry cabinets, granite counters.

No smoking or pets. Includes water, sewer and trash. Includes dedicated off-street parking (one space per unit).

If you work at Lancaster General's city location, this would be an ideal commute...about 2 blocks!

Contact me for additional information at info@yourlancasterhome.com...

Lancaster PA Real Estate - June 2009 Home Market Review

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 15:08:32 -0500

It's time this month to revisit the numbers for Lancaster County PA homes...

June 2009 was actually pretty good. The overall downward trend (contraction) in home sales continued year-over-year, but this June was a decent rebound considering the low low back in January 2009.

Where's the good news? Pending sales are up from last year despite a drop in new listings. That means that buyers are making offers. Most importantly, the new listing price average dropped by almost 10% over 2008 - and the "price gap" I've tried to focus attention on reached a three-year low. That means that sellers are really getting the message (and listing agents too) that to sell requires realistic pricing. I hope the gap stay this low - houses will continue to sell more quickly this way.

This next chart just shows the history of home listings and sale in Lancaster County since 2007. I added some "color comments" to point out significant market turns. You can see how the June sold numbers have contracted steadily since 2007 but that this June represented a decent bump...That means that the Lancaster home market is not "taking a beating".

My last chart for this post is a 3-year look at average home prices in Lancaster County. You'll see how the "price gap" has closed nicely this spring and I sure hope it'll continue. The Seasonally-adjusted (12 month average) price of both new listings and sold homes is coming down slowly. That means that the market is correcting across the board. How far will things drop? The fall has been about 6% so far. I would predict another 6% before prices level off.

So, I'm pretty OK with the June Lancaster Home Market. If you'd like a personalized market analysis for your home feel free to drop me an email at info@yourlancasterhome.com.

Realtors - Beware New Craigslist Scams Involving Your Listings!

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 10:02:51 -0500

This spring & summer I've experienced two types of Craigslist-based scams that deal with listings I have advertised. If you're advertising homes on Craigslist beware - you could experience something similar:

_____________

1 - Recently I had a seller who called me suddenly to say that someone had shown up at their door asking about "the house for rent". Her home was under agreement so she knew something was wrong. The visitor said she had seen a "house for rent" post on Craigslist that had her address with photos and details.

When the seller checked Craigslist sure enough, someone HAD posted a fake rental ad and scraped all the details from MY genuine ad, including my listing photos! The scammer had made up an email using the homeowners name for contacts, no less.

I also received a couple of inquiries about the "house for rent" (the rental rate was excellent, of course). The callers said that when they clicked on the link they were redirected to a form to fill out their information. We flagged the ad, sent a complaint email and took the lockbox off the house, but the ad remained. Over the course of a few tense days for the family the inquiries came in and at least one other visitor came by to "see the house for rent".

2 - This week, I began receiving "contact emails" from my listing ads on Craigslist. They look perfectly real but what tipped me off was the fact that I received two at the same time from different names with the same text. Then, this morning, I received several more. Since my team has a number of active listings advertised on Craigslist, I fully expect to keep getting them. The origination email is always a GMail account and body of the email looks something like this:

Hi; I've just looked at a house of yours on Cl that I am highly interested in. here is the house's ad on Cl:

(INSERT HTML LINK HERE)

Is it still available? If so please email me back as soon as you get a chance.. {highly interested.

thanks

The title is the same title as you would receive from Craigslist for a notification email about your post. some of the ones I received had a broken link (dumb spammers) that read instead "FORM5" leading me to conclude that this scam too is some sort of phishing technique to get personal data. What self-respecting Realtor would not be tempted to think these are real? I responded to the first few gmails just to see if they would engage in a conversation but no response has been forthcoming...I guess they really WEREN'T that interested in the home...

________________

These events serve as a reminder to us who use Craigslist to follow some basic rules:

Always be careful about what you're putting on the posting - it is not secure.
Keep the client's best interests in mind - what if people were coming to YOUR house?
Be alert to respond quickly to any suspicious of non-ordinary lead activity.
Don't click on any links embedded in emails that "smell funny".
Flag any inappropriate postings immediately and try to let Craigslist know about serious issues.

Things To Do This Weekend In Lancaster

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 19:43:36 -0500

Reading Railroad Days
July 1 – July 5
Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Enjoy the remarkable Reading Railroad trains of eastern Pennsylvania history through tours of Reading Company equipment and a huge, operating model train layout.
Time: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission:     $10 Adult $9.00 Seniors 65+ $8.00 Youth 3 to 11 Children 2 and under Free
Address: PA Route 741 East, Strasburg, PA 17579
Website: http://www.rrmuseumpa.org

Backyard BBQ Bash
July 3
Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
Enjoy the perfect summer evening under the stars with great music, Swashbuckler ales, Mount Hope wines and great food. Local bands will perform each Friday evening and a portion of proceeds benefit Central PA Food Bank. Enjoy the music of the Green Onions presented by 93.5 WTPA. Enjoy this event every Friday in July!
Time: 6:00 PM
Admission:     $7 - Bring a canned good and receive a $2 voucher.
Address: 2775 Lebanon Road, Manheim, PA 17545
Website: http://www.parenfaire.com

First Friday
July 3
Downtown Lancaster
First Fridays are a great time to experience downtown Lancaster! Join the thousands who have enjoyed the evening's artistic energy. Over 90 art venues and shops extend their hours to 9 p.m. - some even later! For a complete listing of monthly First Friday activities, visit the website below. A LancasterARTS event.
Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Admission:     Free
Address: 52 N. Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17608
Website: http://www.LancasterARTS.com/firstfridays/

Glo Golf
July 3
Village Greens Golf, Inc.
Golfers, each with thier own glo necklaces, aim glowing balls for the glowing holes in this exciting twist on traditional miniature golf! Special lighting effects enhance play under the stars. Oldies music accompanies your round every first Friday of the month.
Time: 8:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Admission:     $10.50 adult, $9.50 child, 12 and under
Address: 1444 Village Road, Strasburg, PA 17579
Website: http://www.villagegreens.com

Barnstormers War of the Roses vs. York Revolution
July 4 – July 5
Lancaster Barnstormers at Clipper Magazine Stadium
Gametime: Thurs and Fri 7:05, Sat 6:35, Sun 1:35. Fireworks Saturday. More than just baseball, it's affordable and fun family entertainment. Enjoy the Kids' Play Area, concession stands for a taste of Lancaster, unique promos and giveaways and up close seats that will allow you to feel that you're part of the game!
Admission:     See website for details.
Address: Clipper Magazine Stadium, 650 North Prince Street, Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: http://www.lancasterbarnstormers.com

Freedom Fest
July 4
Marion Court Room
WXPN welcomes Danielia Colton along with 11 other Regional Acts and 30 Art Vendors. Non-stop live music!
Time: 3:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Admission:     $10
Address: 7 Marion Court, Lancaster, PA 17602
Website: http://www.marioncourtroom.com

Musser Park Old Fashioned 4th of July
July 4
Musser Park
An Independence Day celebration held in Musser Park with food, games, crafts, entertainment and fun.
Time: 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Admission:     Free.
Address: 135 North Lime Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: http://www.musserpark.org/

Long's Park Summer Entertainment Series
July 5
Long's Park
Enjoy free concerts all summer long every Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Long's Park. See website for performance details.
Time: 7:30 PM
Admission:     Free.
Address: 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: http://www.longspark.org/music.html

LCCTC Green Home Is On The Market...Will It Be Yours?

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 16:39:37 -0500

The Lancaster Career and Technology Center has successfully built a green home from the ground up over the last few years. The goal was to use the project as an incubator for their building trade students to get hands-on experience with emerging technologies. If you've been following this blog for the last few years, you'll already be acquainted with this home with my many articles about it, including ones like these:

Lancaster County Solar Hot Water - LCCTC Event

"Green" Building Open House & Tour - Mount Joy, PA

Well, the big day came and they finished the home for sale. Unfortunately, due to prior arrangements the listing went to another brokerage (I know, I know...don't hold it against them) - not for my lack of effort to convince them to go with me. Irrespective of that, the folks at LCCTC are a class act and my hat is off to them. Help me to sell this home as the buyer's agent!

Here's what she looks like today:

Here's a link to the property details (never mind the poor photos - it's actually nice). If you know anyone who might be interested in owning a $425,000 green-built home in Lancaster County, give me a call! I can show it to you at any time.

Lancaster PA Real Estate Market - Lititz Week In Review

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:24:26 -0500

Listen to this article as an audio podcast.

Lititz, PA - Homes For Sale Update

Here is the Lititz, PA market review for last week, ending June 27. The current inventory activity of Lititz, PA homes for sale according to MLS:

Sold: 15 properties sold last week with a price of $298,713 these homes were on the market an average of 76 days.
New: 24 houses were listed last week.
Pending: 9 houses went under agreement last week.
Expired and Extended: 0 listings expired last week and 2 listings extended their contracts with their listing agent.
Active: 240 homes are active with an average days on market of 126.

Listen to this article as a podcast at:

For Lancaster PA homes for sale click here. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and an involved community member. Jeff's work has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal. Jeff's blog on Lancaster County and its homes is nationally-featured. Contact Jeff for more help with your Lancaster PA Real Estate needs. Jeff is also a photographer - view some of his lancaster pa photography portfolio. Comments are welcome!

Lancaster PA Real Estate Market - Manheim Township Week In Review

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:21:00 -0500

Manheim Township PA - Homes For Sale Update

Here is the Manheim Township PA market review for last week, ending June 27. The Manheim Township PA homes for sale current inventory activity of according to MLS:

Sold: 15 properties sold for an average price of $306,282 these homes were on the market an average of 48 days.
New: 18 houses were listed last week.
Pending: 15 houses went under agreement last week.
Expired and Extended: 1 listings expired last week and 5 listings extended their contracts with their listing agent.
Active: 270 homes are active with an average days on market of 128.

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Listen to this article as a podcast at:

Lancaster PA Real Estate Market - Lancaster City Week In Review

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:11:44 -0500

Listen to this article as an audio podcast.

Lancaster City PA - Homes For Sale Update

Here is the Lancaster City PA market review for last week, ending June 27. The current inventory activity of Lancaster City PA homes for sale according to MLS:

Sold: 11 properties sold for an average price of $95,305, these homes were on the market an average of 66 days.
New: 19 houses were listed last week.
Pending: 12 houses went under agreement last week.
Expired and Extended: 2 listings expired last week and 7 listings extended their contracts with their listing agent.
Active: 273 homes are active with an average days on market of 95.

Listen to this article as a podcast at:

Lancaster PA Real Estate Market - East Petersburg Week In Review

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 20:07:23 -0500

Listen to this article as an audio podcast.

East Petersburg PA - Homes For Sale Update

Here is the Lancaster City PA market review for last week, ending June 27. The current inventory activity of East Petersburg PA homes for sale according to MLS:

Sold: 2 properties sold last week, sold for an average price of $175,400 and were on the market for an average time of 30 days.
New: 2 house were listed last week.
Pending: 0 houses went under agreement last week
Expired and Extended: 1 listing expired last week and 0 listings extended their contracts with their listing agent.
Active: 18 homes are active with an average days on market of 89.

Listen to this article as a podcast at:

How Will Cap and Trade Effect Your Real Estate Business?

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 11:08:16 -0500

Houston, we have a problem.

I'm a big proponent of green thinking, emerging building technologies and alternative energy, but we've got idiots in Washington throwing out the baby with the bathwater with this bill...We need a better thought-out alternative that stimulates the capitalist powerhouse in America to excellence, not MORE TAXES AND BUREAUCRACY!

Thanks Katerina!

Via Nestor & Katerina Gasset Realtors® Wellington Florida Luxury Homes (International Properties and Investments, Inc.):

Real estate is local when it comes to market conditions and market trends. Real estate differs from region to region in styles, architecture and amenities generally speaking. For instance; in Florida fireplaces are not the norm whereas in cold winter areas such as Colorado, fireplaces are a standard addition to a home. In some areas of our country people have wood burning stoves and others have coal burning furnaces. There are areas of our country such as here in Florida where you would not dare live without Air Conditioning but in many homes in Washington for instance, air conditioning is more of a luxury than a necessity.

So when we are discussing the effects of cap and trade in your real estate business you will need to take into account the region in which you live as some areas will be more effected than others.

Here is a really good interactive map from the New York Times. The map I posted below is the map of the votes in the House for and against the Cap and Tax bill that just passed the House. But if you click on the link of the New York Times map, it is interactive.

You can move your mouse over the map and see who voted, what party they belong to and their district. You will be able to see that no matter whether they were democrats or republicans if they are in the farm country of America, high manufacturing areas of America, low energy bills of America and the heartland of America- they voted NO on this bill and for very good reasons.

"For a household of four, energy costs go up $436 that year, and they eventually reach $1,241 in 2035 and average $829 annually over that span. Electricity costs go up 90 percent by 2035, gasoline by 58 percent, and natural gas by 55 percent by 2035. The cumulative higher energy costs for a family of four by then will be nearly $20,000.

But direct energy costs are only part of the consumer impact. Nearly everything goes up, since higher energy costs raise production costs. If you look at the total cost of Waxman-Markey, it works out to an average of $2,979 annually from 2012-2035 for a household of four. By 2035 alone, the total cost is over $4,600." Heritage Foundation.

You will notice that the states where the votes were yes are also the states that already have the highest energy bills. The states that voted no are mostly states with presently low energy bills.

Instead of calling this to Cap and Trade- We can really call it the Tax On Electricity Bill.

How does this information pertain to real estate agents? If you live in the lower energy pricing states you are going to be seeing huge increases in household energy bills. If you live in states that are coal powered or oil powered you will see the largest increases ever in your energy bills because those energy sources are going to be punished with taxation.

How is that going to effect home prices?

How is that going to effect movement in and out of your state?

How is that going to effect your real estate office utility bills and who is going to pay for this?

The House is at it again. This was a 1,300 page bill and again as with so many large bills was not read by most of those that voted yes or no. What is it that they don't get? The American people expect our leaders to read what they vote on.

So what else is tucked away neatly into this bill that perhaps no one knows the full implications of yet?

How about the Federal imposition and takeover of building codes? Your local planning and building offices will not be qualified for any Federal funding of any kind unless they adopt what the FEDS say is the new energy efficient building standards. This will create higher prices in building new homes which is then passed on the homebuyers and then you as a real estate agent are also effected because less buyers will be able to afford to buy a new home built . Not to mention having to wait for the Feds to come and inspect the builders and the homes.

How about the new Federal Energy Nazis Inspectors who will come and rate your home before you can sell your home. So before you can list a home for sale, the seller will have to wait for the Federal inspectors to come out. DMV lines anyone? Once that inspector comes out, he or she will give the home an energy rating. If the home does not meet the guidelines the seller will be required to do the work necessary to bring the home up to energy standards before they can sell the home! Can we say money? Does that mean that there will be homeowners who will become prisoners in their homes because they can not afford to make the energy repairs that the feds require? Is that an invasion of your privacy as well as an attack on your property rights?

Hmmm, how is that going to effect short sales where the seller has no money to make the repairs and adjustments?

How is that going to effect your ability to get listings in a timely manner?

How is that going to effect your seller who is about to lose their home in a foreclosure?

How is that going to effect the seller who has to relocate for their job?

How is that going to effect the estates with heirs having to do these repairs and such when there won't be any money until the estate is sold?

I wonder if our House of Representatives and our Congress men and women EVER thought to actually ask us in the field working this business day in and day out how these bills will effect the housing market?

Of course, the US will be living Cap and Tax while the real perpetrators of dirty air like China and India get off scott free. There will be an unfair advantage in pricing products and manufacturing to the point that if a US company even stands a chance of staying in the manufacturing business will have no choice but to move their company oversees which in turn will cause a massive layoff of people increasing the already high unemployment problem we are facing in our country.

How will the unemployment effect your real estate business?

How will the unemployment effect the REOs and massive foreclosures in your community?

How will the unemployment effect home values as you get more and more vacant properties in your area?

If you are an agent in America's farmland you will begin to see farms no longer being able to produce a profit. Farms use a lot of energy. Energy use will be punished. This is why nearly every politician from a farm land state no matter what party they are affiliated with voted no to this bill. Their districts will suffer terribly. As this happens we will be buying more and more produce from other countries with far less health standards than our own. I don't trust foods, especially produce from China or other countries except Europe. But we don't import our veggies from Europe!

How is this going to effect your real esate business if you live and work in a farm land state?

When it comes down to the nitty and the gritty about this bill you must remember that GE is the biggest supporter of this bill. They stand to make billions of dollars from the passage of this bill. The politicians voting yes on this bill, many of them are getting paid to vote yes. And Al Gore will become the very first GREEN billionaire. It is just too bad that he is not a real capitalist. He could not become a billionaire playing fair and square. Instead, he has an unfair advantage, legislation to make him filthy rich. Not exactly the free market way. It is all about the money.

Contact your Senators now to vote NO now. Click on this link to find your Senators and contact them by email, phone and fax today. Let them know how this is going to effect your business and your community homeowners and buyers. Pass this on...

Jeff Geoghan Realty Group Announces Strategic Partnership with Bare Financial Services, Inc.

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 21:08:37 -0500

Lancaster, PA (June 12, 2009) – The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group of Coldwell Banker Select Professionals proudly announced an addition to their homebuyer program today.

Jeremy Walter, a financial planner of Atglen-based Bare Financial Services, will be partnering with Jeff Geoghan and his group to provide an initial financial consultation with homebuyers. Walter will offer a “mortgage suitability” analysis and answer questions regarding budgeting and savings as they pertain to the purchase of a home.

“I’ve found in my business that buyers, particularly those contemplating their first purchase, haven’t thought through the longer-term ramifications of home ownership,” observed Geoghan, “and many are working with a small amount of savings. Our partnership with Jeremy could allow us to help prospective buyers get their financial ‘house in order’ which leads to a better overall experience”. Beyond the home purchase, Walter offers comprehensive financial planning services including retirement, investment and giving strategies.

The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group also enjoys a partnership with Ray Smith of Home National mortgage, who is a skilled loan representative focusing on first-time homebuyers in the Lancaster County area.

To access the homebuyer financial service, a client merely needs to arrange a phone consultation with Bare Financial, and that is primarily done via one of Jeff Geoghan’s group or Jeremy Walter himself. Interested consumers can learn more at www.YourLancasterHome.com.

The Jeff Geoghan Realty Group, part of the Coldwell Banker Select Professionals family of real estate agents, is based at 1000 North Prince Street in historic Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Their acclaimed website is www.YourLancasterHome.com and they serve the Lancaster PA real estate market with professional and personal services for home buyers and home sellers. Jeff Geoghan is a top real estate expert in Lancaster County, PA, and has been featured in the Lancaster Newspapers, WGAL Channel 8, PA Business Journal and Wall Street Journal.

Bare Financial Services, Inc is a firm of independent financial advisors who are registered representatives of and offer securities through Securities America, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC with advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors. Bare Financial Services, Inc. and the Securities America companies are independently owned. Bare Financial Services is based in Atglen and Jeremy Walter lives in northern Lancaster city. You can visit Bare Financial at www.barefinancial.com or reach them at (610) 593-2483.

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Lancaster LIMC Annual Banquet - Lancaster Convention Center

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 15:43:31 -0500

Last Night my wife and I were able to attend the annual Lancaster Inter-Municipal Committee (LIMC) banquet, this year held at the brand-new Lancaster Convention Center. As a Councilman in East Petersburg, I am periodically involved with LIMC functions as East Pete is a participating member in that body.

The evening began with a reception and moved to a tour of the facility.

After that we were broken into smaller groups for the rest of the tour. Our tourguide was Josh Nowak, the sales manager for the facility.

The rooms and facililties are very impressive. I was somewhat disappointed that we didn't get to go to the 19th floor if the Lancaster PA Marriot tower...but I was able to get to the 10th floor last weekend at the open house...spectacular Lancaster City photos upcoming in a future blog post.

The ballroom level has lots of BIG spaces too:

Finally it was time to eat! We had a very nice dinner - hats off to the chef staff.

Lancaster PA Mayor Rick Gray gave a speech about the convention center and his hopes for the future in Lancaster City:

Lancaster Marriot manager Mark Moosic gave a closing presentation. All in all a good evening and an opportunity to met fellow LIMC members & the convention center management.

Lancaster Tweetup #10 - Held (close to) Ken's Porch!

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 14:58:56 -0500

It was time for the big "One Oh" today - the tenth in our series of "Tweetups" for the Lancaster PA Twitterati! We were set to have this auspicious event on the Columbia Avenue porch of (none other than) Ken Mueller...but that didn't happen.

Alas, the amazing popularity of our breakfast tweetups forced to us relocate to the lesser-known-yet-just-as-cool "back deck" of the Mueller residence. There, Daniel Klotz had placed the precious Dunkin Donuts and coffee for all to partake of...and the crowd rejoiced!

But wait...we had a special guest in the house, er, backyard...Daniel Klotz! A birthday boy, he received a little jig danced by Dave Moulton of "Beards Over Babies" fame:

And finally a bit-o ice cream and a candle to denote his tender years..

We had such a good turnout that we forgot to keep track of the Twitternames this time! Time for a recording secretary? Even Ken Mueller made it for this one - amazing! (Oh wait, it was at HIS house).

Stay tuned for the next "decade" of Twitter breakfast Tweetups - Daniel and I are already cooking up some new venues!

Camping at Gifford Pinchot State Park...A Family Trip

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 13:18:54 -0500

We embraced our "outdoor selves" as a family this past weekend by reserving a campsite at Gifford Pinchot State Park in neighboring York County (Lewisberry, to be exact - only a few miles from Ski Roundtop). Just off of route 83, Gifford Pinchot offers over 300 campsites and was recommended in "The Best of Pennsylvania Tent Camping", a book by Matt Willen that I leaned on for my decision.

The lakeside option was appealing to us and we selected a site in the "A" loop. sites 114-131 are the best in the "A" loop, in my opinion. We were in site 131. Keep in mind that all those sites are non-electric; you can view the campground map here for the best site for your RV or pop-up. I had done my homework and our site was adjacent to a water source & bath house. By the way, the bath house we used was excellent and the showers were in good shape.

We also rented a canoe from a local source in Lancaster and brought that over - our campsite had "access" to the lake, but the brush in between was LOUSY with poison ivy - making it off-limits for the kids unless we were using the canoe. It was handy, however, to be able to push out into the lake without any additional steps. Better sites are close by with clean access to the lake.

We had a clear day on Thursday and Friday morning as well.

We were able to canoe both days and also went swimming at the private beach area for campers (rigidly enforced - a ranger got on the bullhorn while we were out there warning all non campers that they would be getting tickets). The beach area also has a small play area that our kids put to good use - we had to pry them off the slide!

A HUGE thunderstorm roared through on Friday afternoon but my meager camping knowledge got us through without major mishap. Hearing hail on the tent was an interesting experience...

One suggestion I have is to bring bikes - there are lots of paved byways in the park to ride on and it's a family pastime to cruise around. We had plentt to deal with on this, our first family camping exercise, so bikes were left at home. I will definitely bring them next trip, however.

Gifford Pinchot State Park is impressive in size at 2.338 acres, and the lake encompasses 340 acres all by itself. We only covered a small portion by canoe but it's very peaceful and uncrowded. There are 2 large day-use areas with beaches and boat rentals. Everything seemed very orderly and the people were a pleasure to deal with. The Park is even on Twitter!

While our experience was excellent, be aware that if you have a pet life will be more difficult. Only a small portion of sites are pet friendly, and the park does not allow them in common areas.

One nice thing was meeting the "neighbors", a nice family who were more experienced campers who gave us some good pointers and advice. Seems like the family factor is very high and it's not hard to meet people should you prefer.

For a fee of $44 this campground was very reasonable. If you're interested in camping in the Lancaster PA area, Gifford Pinchot is hard to beat. If you're looking for an opportunity to canoe, Pinchot Lake is very accessible and easy to get around on. The kids were asking when we could come back even as we were packing up!

New Price - Move Right In - 128 Atkins Ave - Lancaster Township

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:15:15 -0500

Photo Gallery

Description

Explore the beauty of Hamilton Park and this exquisite home! You are going to be impressed by the grounds, including the large rear property with driveway, garage, stone patio and lots of yard to enjoy. Inside, a nice kitchen with all appliances staying and a full 3rd floor bedroom make this brick home spacious without being pretentious. Lots of details...absolutely worth a look!

Features

Bedrooms:	4
Bathrooms:	1
Parking Spaces:	2
Year Built:	1937
Subdivision:	Hamilton Park
Lot Size:	.11
Garage Size:	1
School District:	Lancaster
Square Footage:	1627
Agent Name:	Jeff Geoghan
Broker:	Coldwell Banker Select Professionals
MLS #:	150391

Location

128 Atkins Ave Lancaster PA 17603

vFlyer Id: 2560488

Hanging Your Art - There's An Art To It!

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 09:11:03 -0500

Interesting perspective on home decoration by my friends at Sugar Pine Realty out in Northern California:

Have you got some Van Gogh's and Da Vinci's to hang? Well, even if they arent quite that caliber, don't get nailed with extra holes in your walls and poorly arranged pictures. consider these tips before hanging artwork:

Arrangement matters

· If you have several smaller items or a large wall on which to showcase your artwork, an arrangement may work best.

· Artwork can be grouped by color, subject matter or by matching frames or mats. Consider varying the sizes and shapes of items to add interest to an arrangement.

Orderly conduct

· To keep a grouping from looking disorderly, create a geometric shape with the outer edges and plan for at least one or two straight lines to run through the arrangement.

· You can achieve cohesiveness by hanging items relatively close together so they seem like a unit. Make sure one item doesn't overshadow the others.

· Items arranged in a V or inverted V shape lead the eye in a smooth fashion.

Location counts

· Pictures should be at either standing eye level or seated eye level depending on the room. Place pictures where they won't be obscured by the head of a sitting person.

· It's also best to mount items no more than one foot above furnishings. If you need to hang a picture higher, fill the gap with a vase or other decoration.

Put it on paper

· Don't start hammering until you have a plan. First trace around the frame on a piece of paper, mark where the hook is and cut out the form. Place the paper on the wall and when it's where you want - nail it!

Things To Do This Weekend In Lancaster

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:03:45 -0500

Intercourse Heritage Days
June 19 – June 21
Intercourse Community Park
The 6th Annual Intercourse Heritage Days at the Community Park east of the town of Intercourse on Route 340. This fun filled event will run the weekend of Friday, June 19th, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Saturday, June 20th, from 6:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. and Sunday, June 21st from 10:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. See website.
Admission:     No admission fee
Address: 3730 Old Philadelphia Pike, Gordonville, PA 17529
Website: http://www.intercourseheritagedays.com

Music Friday
June 19
Downtown Lancaster
Each third Friday of the month, Downtown Lancaster hosts Music Fridays. Performances will abound throughout the 300 block of North Queen Street as well as retailers, restaurants, and attractions throughout Downtown. Each month will bring new entertainment to the streets of Downtown Lancaster.
Address: 300 block of North Queen Street, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: http://downtownlancaster.com/music.htm

ROUTE 66 REVISITED - The Roots of American Rock n' Roll
June 19 – August 8
American Music Theatre
This show traces the history of America’s music. Come explore the California harmonies of The Eagles to the Jersey rock n’ roll of The Boss. From the Man in Black to Mellencamp, from Woodstock to Newport, we’ll showcase the best music from the classic artists that defined American culture. No shows Sundays or Mondays.
Address: 2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602
Website: http://www.AMTshows.com

Vivace Festival Concert-Arnold Steinhardt with Festival Orchestra, Bach and Mendelssohn
June 19
Pennsylvania Academy of Music
Arnold Steinhardt with Festival Orchestra, Bach and Mendelssohn at Vivace! - the Pennsylvania Academy of Music’s annual international summer music festival of concerts and special events June 13-27.
Time: 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Admission:     Adults $20, Students $10, Children 3 and under free. Festival passes: Single Pass $175, Couples Pass $300
Address: 42 N Prince St, Lancaster, PA 17603
Website: http://www.pamusacad.org

Historic Eastern Market
June 20
The Historic Eastern Market House, near corner of E King and N Shippen
The Historic Eastern Market is an outdoor market that offers local produce, prepared foods, art, and music. It is a festive atmosphere where you can shop, eat, and catch local talent. Every Saturday we have live entertainment (music, dance, and more).
Time: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Admission:     FREE
Address: 308 East King Street, Lancaster, PA 17602
Website: http://www.historiceasternmarket.org

Switchfoot with The Jellybricks
June 21
American Music Theatre
Originating from Christian roots, Switchfoot’s alternative rock is a unique mix of densely layered sound featuring electronic experimentation, hard-charging guitar riffs, and soft ballads. Singles include and “Dare You to Move.” The Jellybricks are a rock n’ roll quartet based in Harrisburg, PA.
Time: 7:00 PM
Admission:     $25
Address: 2425 Lincoln Highway East, Lancaster, PA 17602
Website: http://www.AMTshows.com

Long's Park Summer Entertainment Series
June 21
Long's Park
Enjoy free concerts all summer long every Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day at Long's Park. See website for performance details.
Time: 7:30 PM
Admission:     Free.
Address: 1441 Harrisburg Pike, Lancaster, PA 17601
Website: http://www.longspark.org/music.html

Lancaster PA Tweetup #9 - Happy Birthday Chad!

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:32:16 -0500

Prince Street Cafe in downtown Lancaster was host to our ninth "Lancaster PA Tweetup" today, and this one was special! Today was also the birthday of Chad Hamilton (@poservarial), and @Julie_Rickards baked cupcakes in honor of the event!

We had a record turnout with over 20 twitterati in attendance, including several new faces.

Here's the list:

Eaciv
Johnromanski
Brix11
Lancasterhomes
Poservarial
Julie_Rickards
Wisegrass
Odonnellsteve
Ryanshenhoover
Esposimi
Veraviolet
Danielklotz
Jeremywalter
Wordcooper
Mivillephoto
Poservarial
Byersremorse

TRezendes
KRezendes
Benzendes
InfoLibrarian

Open House This Sunday - Hamilton Park Home With Great Yard

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 12:42:05 -0500

Open house this Sunday June 21st from 1-3, 128 Atkins Ave in Lancaster. This Hamilton Park home is move in ready and all the appliances stay. 4 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, great fireplace in the living room, beautiful hardwood floors, and a flagstone patio ready for summertime entertaining.

Located on Atkins Ave, a quiet street with many beautiful homes. Sit on the front porch and enjoy nice weather. Plenty of parking on this street but this home also has a driveway and garage in the back.

All the appliances are newer and even the washer and dryer stay. Kitchen door conveniently leads to the back patio for easy barbecues! The wood burning fireplace is a great way to warm up in winter.

Great closet space, some with organizers, nice built-ins, third floor bedroom is very large with windows on three sides. Visit www.128atkins.com for more information and pictures.

___________________________________________________________________________

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Lancaster Catholic High School Carnival - This Week!

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 19:16:52 -0500

This week is Lancaster Catholic High School's 28th annual Carnival. Monday through Saturday 6-11 pm. Adults are $3 admission and kids 6 and under are free. The carnival is at the schools athletic fields.

Last year more than 30,000 people attended the event, which organizers hope will raise $150,000 for the Lancaster Catholic High School Athletic Department.

Here are the highlights:

Fireworks Saturday night
Pony Rides
Bingo
$50 Golf Putting Challenge
Arts & Crafts Area
White Elephant Tent
Games & Rides For all ages
$2,000 Raffle
Skydiver
Live Music Every Night
Great Food

From route 30 in Lancaster:Take the exit for 272 South, 222 South or 501 South, Proceed for about 2-3 minutes until traffic light (Marshall & Keller Avenues) Turn Left onto Marshall Avenue and look for all the fun.

East Petersburg PA homes - New Ranch Home Listing!

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:55:19 -0500

Excellent Hempfield Ranch

2460 Graystone Road, East Petersburg, PA 17520 View Map

Whether you're looking to own a home for the first time or move up from a townhome situation, this East Petersburg ranch property offers many great features and an excellent opportunity to stretch your legs!

Situated on a large corner lot, within walking distance of the well-known East Petersburg park system, this property offers plenty of space to run, play and entertain with lots of parking for guests. The patio runs the length of the home and can seat many guests.

Inside, a nice family room is light & bright with lots of windows and a fireplace to relax by. The dining room adjoining has built-ins. One-floor living is the rule and the main bedroom is nice-sized. Ceramic Tile in the main living areas makes for easy maintenance.

You'll be hard pressed to find a better home for the money in Hempfield Schools and with the recreational opportunities of this East Petersburg PA home for sale!

For more details and photos visit www.2460Graystone.com

Details

Asking Price:

$158,753

Sq. Feet:

1201

Lot Size:

.04 acres

Bedrooms:

Bathrooms:

# of Floors:

Garage Size:

1 Car

Year Built:

1951

Property Amenities

Community Amenities

Contact Info

Jeff Geoghan
MBA, Realtor

Main (717) 735-8400
Cell (717) 799-0851
Dir (717) 735-8402
Email | Website

2009 World War Two Weekend - Airshow Photos

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 12:49:34 -0500

I took the boys to Reading Airport on the 7th to check out the 2009 World War Two Weekend Airshow, put on by the Mid Atlantic Air Museum located right at the Ariport. There were thousands of people there and hundreds of period re-enactors. My favorite parts were the restored warbirds themselves. Here's some photos from the event from the lens of Heritage Photographic Art:

There's a bunch more and I'll be sure to upload to the "Warbirds" gallery at http://www.heritage-photographic.com.

Open House This Weekend at Penn Manor Beauty...

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:31:01 -0500

Open this Sunday will be 135 Spring Meadow Lane - 1-3pm hosted by Brian Schulman of the Jeff Geoghan Realty Group.

If you are interested in exploring Lancaster County's country living you're going to love this home. If you are an entertainer, you're going to REALLY love this home!

Nestled in the secluded Letort Manor community in Manor Township just west of Millersville, PA is 135 Spring Meadow Lane. Anyone searching for Manor Township PA homes for sale will tell you that not a lot comes up for sale around here...people are staying put! This home represents your opportunity to join those moving to the "country" without sacrificing any conveniences.

A traditional split level, this home boasts a large integrated garage with direct access inside, a real plus on those rainy spring afternoons. A sleek kitchen/dining combination with breakfast bar makes chatting over an omelette a reality. The lot is quite large and is exquisitely landscaped with islands of mulched-in foliage that invites a stroll through the property. A newer shed out back could be used for storage or as a workshop.

The real jewel of this Lancaster country home is the pool and deck, however. To see this area is worth the effort to set up a showing alone! If you're planning on "having folks over" you'll want to have this space to stretch out in...check out the photos to see what we mean...

Whether it's indoors or out, Spring or Fall, this home and property does not fail to impress.

___________________________________________________________________________

Interested in learning more about Lancaster County, PA? Read More...

Interested in listing your Lancaster PA Home for sale? See our #1 home marketing program!

Relocating to Lancaster County? We're part of one of the largest relocation companies in the world today.

Jeff Geoghan, Brian Schulman, Lauren Krady

Lancaster PA Real Estate Market - Lititz Month In Review

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 18:28:41 -0500

Listen to this article as an audio podcast.

Lititz, PA - Homes For Sale Update

Here is the Lititz, PA market review for last month. The current inventory activity of Lititz, PA homes for sale according to MLS:

Sold: 33 properties sold last month with a price of $233,649 these homes were on the market an average of 67 days.
New: 73 houses were listed last month.
Pending: 39 houses went under agreement last month.
Expired and Extended: 18 listings expired last week and 16 listings extended their contracts with their listing agent.
Active: 242 homes are active with an average days on market of 136.

Listen to this article as a podcast at: